The National Aptitude Test (NAT), conducted by the National Testing Service (NTS) of Pakistan, is a standardized exam for students seeking undergraduate admission in NTS-associated universities. Below is your step-by-step guide—including admission requirements, test format, scoring, annual calendar, and official links.
What is NAT?
NAT evaluates a candidate’s aptitude and readiness for various undergraduate programs through multiple subject streams (such as NAT-IE for Engineering, NAT-IM for Management, etc.). A successful NAT score (valid for one year) can be used for admissions at all participating universities.
Eligibility Criteria
- Minimum: Intermediate/HSSC (12 years of education) or equivalent.
- No age limit.
- Open to Pakistani nationals and valid residents.
NAT Test Format & Scoring Breakdown
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks | Weight (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | 20 | 1 | 20 | 20% |
| Analytical Reasoning | 20 | 1 | 20 | 20% |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 20 | 1 | 20 | 20% |
| Subject Section* | 40 | 1 | 40 | 40% |
| Total | 100 | — | 100 | 100% |
*Subject section depends on the chosen NAT module (e.g., Pre-Engineering, Pre-Medical, etc.)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Format: Paper-based, in English
How to Register (Step-by-Step)
- Go to NTS Registration Portal:
https://portal.nts.org.pk/ - Sign Up / Login:
- New users create an account, returning users log in with CNIC and password.
- Fill the Form:
- Enter personal, educational (board abbreviations like BISE LHR), and contact info.
- Select NAT Type:
- Choose your subject stream (NAT-IE, NAT-IM, etc.).
- Choose City:
- Provide first and second choice from the test city list.
- Upload Photo:
- Recent, passport-size, clear-face photograph.
- Download Fee Slip:
- Fee: Rs. 700/- (subject to change—always verify latest).
- Pay at Bank:
- Use the official NTS slip at MCB, Meezan, HBL, or ABL.
- Submit Application:
- Upload deposit slip online (no physical submission required unless specified).
- Track Application & Roll Number Slip:
- Download later from portal; check lists for errors and corrections.
Documents Required
- Valid CNIC or B-Form (if under 18)
- Recent passport-size photo
- Paid bank deposit slip
NAT Sessions Calendar: 2025 Example
| Month | NAT Session |
|---|---|
| January | NAT session in January 2025 |
| March | NAT session in March 2025 |
| May | NAT session in May 2025 |
| July | NAT session in July 2025 |
| September | NAT session in September 2025 |
| November | NAT session in November 2025 |
Exact dates and frequencies are subject to NTS’s annual schedule—check the official site for updates.
After Registration
- Errors List: Check and report corrections within 4 days after provisional list announcement.
- Roll Number Slip: Download ~1 week before test.
- Test Day: Bring CNIC/B-Form, roll number slip, and original deposit slip.
- Results: Usually available online within 7 days—download from portal.
- Validity: NAT scores stay valid for 1 year from result date.
FAQs
Q: How many NAT sessions are there annually?
A: Six (approx.)—see calendar above; always confirm at www.nts.org.pk.
Q: Can I retake NAT?
A: Yes; you may appear in any upcoming session.
Q: Is NAT accepted by all universities?
A: Only those associated with NTS—verify with your target institution first.
Q: What’s the minimum passing score?
A: Usually 50%, but check institution-specific requirements.
Q: I lost my result card/roll number slip. What should I do?
A: Download a duplicate from the NTS portal.
Official Links
- Main NAT Page: https://www.nts.org.pk/new/NAT.php
- Application Guide: NAT Registration Instructions
- Registration: https://portal.nts.org.pk/
Key Tips for Success
- Pick the right NAT module for your chosen discipline.
- Use official NTS past papers and sample tests (see NTS Past Papers Section).
- Manage time wisely during the test.
- Arrive early on the test day.
- Double-check all uploaded information and documentation.
We update this guide regularly with the latest schedules, fees, and preparation resources from NTS. Check back before registering to ensure you have the most up-to-date information. You can also contact us for further queries.
Team Short Leap
